Perhaps this is a silly question,

But I am wondering when others have/intend on changing their PCV valve? I've gone over the scheduled maintenance but do not see it listed. I have 79k on my '10 350.

 

I'll do PCV change with my 2010 Rx350 during 120k miles together with spark plugs , this parts are pretty common during minor tune ups procedure.

 

i check my oil regularly and let oil consumption be the gauge to let me know when to change my PCV. Any noticed increase of oil usage usually points out to me that the PCV might be stuck.

 

Just change it every 3 years or so. It's a very inexpensive part $6.

 

Can someone tell me where the PCV valve is located?

 

On top of the engine, I think over toward the driver side. I think you need to pull the plastic cover off to see it. Takes 1 minute to change. I did it last year.

See this for the Highlander, should be the same. There is a photo halfway down

http://www.toyotanation.com/forum/12...placement.html

 

Great Info! Thanks! Some Lexus dealers (like mine) will NOT perform the service you ask if it's not recommended by Big Brother (Lexus). Lunacy. I agree, the PCV is a cheap part and is insurance. A failed PCV can cause a ton of problems.

Ed

 

Take it out, clean it with CRC valve cleaner and then shake it up and down. You should hear the movent piston inside.
After that blow and suck air in one side. air should flow from the engine top towards the intake manifold. If it does return the valve back with a little Teflon around the screw in part. Now you are good to go for another 30,000 miles !

 

I Second a 3 year replacement on a $6 part.

 

Yes, you can clean the PCV valve with part cleaner, but it still best to change it out with a new one due to the internal spring inside the PCV valve loosing tension over the years of use. Therefore, the PCV valve may not seal(or rebound) properly and allow oil to seep pass it still after cleaning it.

Furthermore, it is a $6-$10 part that have to be removed off the engine for cleaning anyway, so just put a new PCV valve on the engine instead of reusing a part that has been used for years.

Cleaning an old PCV valve is like stitching up old underwear with holes to avoid buying a new pack for about $10.

 

Question, is it really necessary to add any kind of sealant on PCV threads?

I am pretty sure old one did not have any, and on youtube I see some people add it and some dont.

 

no you don't need sealant. but pay attention to torque spec. I don't believe you NEED to change PCV valve. sure replacing it won't hurt. but it's not required unless you have a problem. I did my 4runner's after almost 170k miles and it sounded just like the new one I put on. my RX with far less miles I decided not to do it

 

Yeah, I got new one for like $7, might be good to swap it after 13years

 

Torque is 20 lb-ft?

 

I do add thread sealant as many replacements do come with it already on the PCV valve depending on the brand or car model. The thread sealant just provides a better leak free seal, however it does not seem to be a deal breaker if you do not use any .